Syriac Catholic cathedral, Catholic cathedral in Christian Quarter, Damascus, Syria
The Syriac Catholic cathedral is a place of worship in the Christian quarter of Damascus, situated near the eastern gate Bab Sharqi and overlooking the Straight Street. The structure displays robust concrete columns in classical style and functions as a religious center for the local community.
The building suffered severe damage in 1860 during an attack on the Christian quarter, but was reconstructed by 1863. This rebuilding became a significant mark of the Christian community's resilience in Damascus.
This cathedral serves as a spiritual center for the Syriac Catholic community in Damascus, where worshippers gather for liturgies conducted in Aramaic and participate in community celebrations throughout the year. The building anchors the identity of the Christian quarter as a living place of worship and communal gathering.
The cathedral welcomes both tourists and worshippers, though visiting hours may shift during religious observances and community events. It is wise to check on service times and enter respectfully when worshippers are present.
This location once held a church dedicated to Moses the Ethiopian, which in the 17th century sparked disputes between Syriac Orthodox and Catholic communities. These religious tensions marked the history of the Christian quarter for years to come.
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